The nursing program I am planning on applying to is very competitive. I am working may way through pre-reqs now, and I can't apply until next spring. I have a decent GPA (3.8). However a friend of mine had a 3.7 and was not accepted this year. She and I both received a 10K scholarship form our local hospital and have an employment contract waiting once we graduate. It seems that grades alone don't cut it. They also want some medical/clinical experience.

Does anyone have ideas on how to get ahead of the pack for applying? I don't have the time to do a CNA course this fall, I have 15 credits during the day and the CNA class is in the evenings plus I have a family. I am thinking about training a therapy dog, volunteering to help with the exercise program at the long term care unit of our local hospital, getting involved with adult social services for neglected Sr. citizens, or speaking at local schools about health related issues (sex, drugs, drinking and driving, HIV). I just don't know what has the best chance of catching their eye.

Thoughts? better ideas???

Volunteer work in a hospital setting or other healthcare location is a great idea.